Myodesopsias are small spots that appear in the vitreous humor of the eye, whose appearance is similar to that of a fly. Although they cause some vision difficulties, they are usually harmless, however, they can sometimes indicate the presence of an ocular pathology.
They constitute one of the most recurrent reasons for ophthalmological medical consultation, although they are not usually dangerous. In this article we will see an explanation of what myodesopsias are, what are the main causes and the most common treatments.
Our eyes are made up of a very complex ocular system made up of an external layer, a middle layer and an internal layer of cells, tissues and nerve terminals responsible for carrying electrical signals to our brain.
In turn, each layer is made up of other segments that have specific functions. The inner layer, for example, is made up of three distinct chambers or sections; an anterior chamber between the cornea and the iris, a posterior chamber between the iris, ciliary body and lens; and a vitreous chamber, between Christianity and the retina.
It is in the latter where it is found a gelatinous, colorless mass that we call the vitreous humor or vitreous body which has a protective and cushioning function with which it is possible to maintain the shape of the eye and its internal pressure.
What are myodesopsias?
Myodesopsias are an eye disorder that causes spots, dots or threads of a different size and consistency within the vitreous humor of the eye, that is, in the gelatinous mass that is between the lens and the retina.
In formal terms, myodesopsias are defined as an entopic phenomenon (that is, one that originates and manifests inside the eye), caused by some defects in the vitreous gel that reflect, absorb or disperse light, thereby interfering with its passage.
On the other hand and in more colloquial words, myodesopsias They are known as “floating eyes” or “floaters” because they have the shape of a spider web, a piece of fluff or a small dot, usually black or gray, that moves and floats inside the eye.
For this reason, in some investigations, cell-type myodesopsias or filament-type myodesopsias are recognized. Although they can hinder vision, and are one of the most common reasons for ophthalmological consultation, myodesopsias are not particularly harmful.
They occur more frequently during aging due to important changes in the cellular composition of the vitreous humor caused by the natural passage of time.
However, if the number of myodesopsias increases suddenly and is accompanied by flashes of light, they could indicate the presence of a more serious pathology (such as retinal detachment), so in any of these cases it is important to immediately consult a specialist.
Main causes
Myodesopsias are the result of the accumulation of cellular debris in the vitreous humor, that is, they are caused mainly by changes in the cells that produce the gelatinous substance of the vitreous humor inside the eyes.
During aging, this substance becomes more liquid, so the fibers and eye cells clump together easily, generating spots or shadows on the retina that at first glance look like small flies.
On other occasions, the presence of myodesopsias can be an indicator that the eyes are inflamed or injured, so they can be accompanied by internal bleeding that in the worst case causes loss of vision.
Likewise, they may appear as a consequence of a detachment of the posterior vitreous, or due to ocular trauma, surgical interventions on the eye, or as one of the effects of myopia
Most frequent treatments
Floaters usually disappear on their own after a few weeks, without causing significant discomfort. That is, they do not require special treatment and there is no definitive medical treatment.
However, since they occur more frequently during aging, which in turn increases the probability of retinal detachment, It is advisable to go to the ophthalmologist whenever there is a sudden increase in the size of the spot, a peripheral shadow in the visual field or a sudden decrease in vision.
From there, the treatments recommended by the specialist will be appropriate to the pathology detected, which may include a vitrectomy (surgery to remove the vitreous humor to replace it with a saline solution). In the meantime, it is recommended not to chase the spots with your eyes, as this can worsen the quality of vision.
